Elected representatives of people should decide nation’s destination: COAS General Asim Munir
Says there is no no-go area in Pakistan at this time while briefing NA session
ISLAMABAD, April 14 (SABAH): Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir has said that negotiations with militants in past helped terrorists regroup in Pakistan. His remarks come as the nation faces a rise in terrorist activities, leading to the loss of precious lives.
The army chief’s comments were reflective of the National Security Committee’s (NSC) meeting which took place last week in which the top military and civil brass decided that current terrorism was a result of a soft corner with the Taliban. The meeting had also decided to initiate operation against such elements.
During his briefing on Friday in an in-camera meeting of the lower house’s National Security Committee, the COAS said the operation was part of an already “approved and ongoing strategy dialogue and development”. He said the campaign will include representation not only from the security agencies but also from all departments of the government. “This is not a new operation but a whole national approach.”
“Alhamdulillah, there is no no-go area in Pakistan at this time. A large number of martyrs laid down their lives for this success. They shed their blood for the country,” he said. The COAS added that terrorists have no other option but to accept the state’s writ and noted that they regrouped due to the state’s willingness to negotiate with them.
“Security forces are ready for permanent peace in the country. In this regard, intelligence-based operations are conducted on a daily basis,” the army chief added.
“We should leave the discussion of new and old Pakistan and talk about our Pakistan from now on. Pakistan has no shortage of resources and manpower,” he added.
“Elected representatives of the people should decide the nation’s destination. Pakistan Army will fully support Pakistan in its journey of development and success,” he remarked.
Members of the National Assembly welcomed the ideas of the army chief by banging the desk and clapping.
As per media reports, apart from the army chief, senior members of the military also gave a detailed overview of the current situation to the members.